Posts by Zoe Winogradhttp://www.thejc.com/user/feed/13047
RSS feed of user postsenThe highs and lows of Israeli life in Britainhttp://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/110831/the-highs-and-lows-israeli-life-britain
<p>For Iris Margolis, life in the UK is good. </p>
<p>The 28-year-old from Tel Aviv is studying for an MBA at the London Business School, a course she says “is regarded as one of the best in the world. </p>
<p>“I wanted to gain international experience and I wanted to learn among the best,” she explains. “London offers a great opportunity to scale-up professionally.”</p>
<p>She is one of 11 Israelis on the course. They are a tight-knit group. “We are a kind of mafia,” she laughs.</p>
<p>The 11 all belong to the Israel club run by 31-year-old Sefi Kedmi. “It is an Israeli thing, I guess — we have a very communal culture. So when we are in a different city, in a different culture, we tend to spend a lot of time together,” he says.</p>
<p>Mr Kedmi is involved with other Middle East groups on campus, and has good links with many of his Arab peers. “Even though I am a political person and a proud Israeli, at the end of the day I want to maintain relationships and to keep politics out of it.”</p>
<p>The LBS Israelis must be very good at “keeping the politics out of it” — according to Mr Kedmi, they have experienced no anti-Israel encounters on campus. “We don’t interest people as much as we think,” he said.</p>
<p>In fact, it is a different relationship that is proving a problem for these Israeli students — the one with their fellow Jews in the London community. </p>
<p>“There are a trillion organisations here and it’s very hard to understand. Everything overlaps. Every synagogue and every event; there is no one, combined thing,” complains Ms Margolis.</p>
<p>“I identify myself as an Israeli but, here, being Jewish seems to be more about religion,” says Mr Kedmi. </p>
<p>Both have been put off from trying to make friends with local Jews, and have contented themselves with staying within the 50,000-strong Israeli community in the capital.</p>
<p>Some London-based Israelis are more adventurous, however. Twenty-seven-year-old Mirit Lugacy, from the town of Yavneh, works for Thomson Reuters and specifically requested a posting in the UK. </p>
<p>On arriving here, she went to events held by Jewish Learning Exchange and Aish which she describes as “the best way to make friends.” </p>
<p>She says: “I went to one JLE event, then I joined Facebook groups, went to more events and now I feel like I’m part of a family.” </p>
<p>But, despite finding a warm welcome from the locals, Ms Lugacy started to “miss speaking Hebrew and having the Israeli connection”. So she joined the Israel Salon.</p>
<p>More than 170 Israelis attend this social group which was set up by World Zionist Organisation shaliach Nir Cohen in March 2012. </p>
<p>“One of the things I noticed when I got to London was that there were a lot of young Israelis with no framework to meet together, speak Hebrew in an Israeli atmosphere. The idea was to make a social platform where Israelis could feel at home away from home,” he reports. </p>
<p>The Salon, which meets at venues around the capital, was also established with a brief to help bridge the gap between Israelis and London Jews. </p>
<p>But a survey conducted by Mr Cohen showed that only 32 per cent of the members felt that integrating in the Jewish community was very important. </p>
<p>Mr Cohen explains: “The average Israeli doesn’t get the essence of the British Jewish community. We are a majority in our country and we don’t feel the need to express our Jewish identity in the same way.” </p>
<p>One member who sees no need to reach out to the locals is Eli Kaufman, He came to London four years ago for work and felt it was only a matter of time before he met “fellow Israelis”. </p>
<p>“When you travel around the world you can often see Israelis hanging around together — it’s almost an instinct,” he says. </p>
<p>Perhaps solidarity with Anglo-Jewry would be more of an issue if the Israelis encountered hostility from non-Jews in London. But, according to Mr Kaufman, very little exists.</p>
<p>“I am often asked by friends from Israel if I have encountered any hostility as an Israeli in London, but the truth of the matter is the most common reaction to hearing that I am an Israeli is: ‘That’s wicked — I’ve heard that Tel Aviv has an amazing night-life’.” </p>
<p>Good as Tel Aviv’s social scene may be, London’s is better, and provides the draw for many Israelis to come to the UK.</p>
<p>Ilan Toubiana, 37, left Haifa 10 years ago to move to London. “I’m here mostly for the freedom,” she says. </p>
<p>“In Israel, when you’re single at this age people judge you. Here, there are a lot of singles and they don’t judge. It is easier to meet people.” </p>
<p>There are different concerns for families. Manuela Rathaus-Alper, 40, mother of three and chair of Israeli scouts, moved to London 16 years ago with her husband to study architecture. </p>
<p>She says that her children, aged 13, nine and one, “enjoy having both English and Israeli identities, which are both quite established.” </p>
<p>By speaking Hebrew at home and “keeping all the festivals in a secular Israeli way,” Ms Rathaus-Alper feels her children maintain a strong Israeli connection, which is important to her. </p>
<p>“Many families find the transition from Israel to the UK quite easy, there is always the language barrier, but generally they feel quite supported,” she argues. </p>
<p>The question is, will they choose to say? </p>
<p>Mr Kedmi puts it poignantly: “I love London but Israel is where I want to raise my children. London is where I live but my home is Israel.”</p>UK newsDiasporaIsrael110831storyhttp://www.thejc.com/files/Iris Margolis.JPG

Iris Margolis: “the London community is hard to understand”

110179Thousands of Israelis flock to Germany in reverse exodus90956Diaspora groups voice support for Israel under attack
For Iris Margolis, life in the UK is good.
The 28-year-old from Tel Aviv is studying for an MBA at the London Business School, a course she says “is regarded as one of the best in the world.
“I wanted to gain international experience and I wanted to learn among the best,” she explains. “London offers a great opportunity to scale-up professionally.”
She is one of 11 Israelis on the course. They are a tight-knit group. “We are a kind of mafia,” she laughs.
The 11 all belong to the Israel club run by 31-year-old Sefi Kedmi. “It is an Israeli thing, I guess — we have a very communal culture. So when we are in a different city, in a different culture, we tend to spend a lot of time together,” he says.
Mr Kedmi is involved with other Middle East groups on campus, and has good links with many of his Arab peers. “Even though I am a political person and a proud Israeli, at the end of the day I want to maintain relationships and to keep politics out of it.”
The LBS Israelis must be very good at “keeping the politics out of it” — according to Mr Kedmi, they have experienced no anti-Israel encounters on campus. “We don’t interest people as much as we think,” he said.
In fact, it is a different relationship that is proving a problem for these Israeli students — the one with their fellow Jews in the London community.
“There are a trillion organisations here and it’s very hard to understand. Everything overlaps. Every synagogue and every event; there is no one, combined thing,” complains Ms Margolis.
“I identify myself as an Israeli but, here, being Jewish seems to be more about religion,” says Mr Kedmi.
Both have been put off from trying to make friends with local Jews, and have contented themselves with staying within the 50,000-strong Israeli community in the capital.
Some London-based Israelis are more adventurous, however. Twenty-seven-year-old Mirit Lugacy, from the town of Yavneh, works for Thomson Reuters and specifically requested a posting in the UK.
On arriving here, she went to events held by Jewish Learning Exchange and Aish which she describes as “the best way to make friends.”
She says: “I went to one JLE event, then I joined Facebook groups, went to more events and now I feel like I’m part of a family.”
But, despite finding a warm welcome from the locals, Ms Lugacy started to “miss speaking Hebrew and having the Israeli connection”. So she joined the Israel Salon.
More than 170 Israelis attend this social group which was set up by World Zionist Organisation shaliach Nir Cohen in March 2012.
“One of the things I noticed when I got to London was that there were a lot of young Israelis with no framework to meet together, speak Hebrew in an Israeli atmosphere. The idea was to make a social platform where Israelis could feel at home away from home,” he reports.
The Salon, which meets at venues around the capital, was also established with a brief to help bridge the gap between Israelis and London Jews.
But a survey conducted by Mr Cohen showed that only 32 per cent of the members felt that integrating in the Jewish community was very important.
Mr Cohen explains: “The average Israeli doesn’t get the essence of the British Jewish community. We are a majority in our country and we don’t feel the need to express our Jewish identity in the same way.”
One member who sees no need to reach out to the locals is Eli Kaufman, He came to London four years ago for work and felt it was only a matter of time before he met “fellow Israelis”.
“When you travel around the world you can often see Israelis hanging around together — it’s almost an instinct,” he says.
Perhaps solidarity with Anglo-Jewry would be more of an issue if the Israelis encountered hostility from non-Jews in London. But, according to Mr Kaufman, very little exists.
“I am often asked by friends from Israel if I have encountered any hostility as an Israeli in London, but the truth of the matter is the most common reaction to hearing that I am an Israeli is: ‘That’s wicked — I’ve heard that Tel Aviv has an amazing night-life’.”
Good as Tel Aviv’s social scene may be, London’s is better, and provides the draw for many Israelis to come to the UK.
Ilan Toubiana, 37, left Haifa 10 years ago to move to London. “I’m here mostly for the freedom,” she says.
“In Israel, when you’re single at this age people judge you. Here, there are a lot of singles and they don’t judge. It is easier to meet people.”
There are different concerns for families. Manuela Rathaus-Alper, 40, mother of three and chair of Israeli scouts, moved to London 16 years ago with her husband to study architecture.
She says that her children, aged 13, nine and one, “enjoy having both English and Israeli identities, which are both quite established.”
By speaking Hebrew at home and “keeping all the festivals in a secular Israeli way,” Ms Rathaus-Alper feels her children maintain a strong Israeli connection, which is important to her.
“Many families find the transition from Israel to the UK quite easy, there is always the language barrier, but generally they feel quite supported,” she argues.
The question is, will they choose to say?
Mr Kedmi puts it poignantly: “I love London but Israel is where I want to raise my children. London is where I live but my home is Israel.”
Sun, 01 Sep 2013 10:30:16 +0100Zoe Winograd110831 at http://www.thejc.comCross removed from Jewish pilot's Second World War gravehttp://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/110819/cross-removed-jewish-pilots-second-world-war-grave
<p>This week marks the end of a two-year campaign by the family of Second World War hero pilot Cyril Anekstein to have a cross removed from his grave and replaced by a star of David.</p>
<p>Squadron Leader Anekstein was killed during a RAF bombing mission over Germany in August 1943 and buried in the Rheinberg cemetery. </p>
<p>In 2011, his Jerome Freedman, Mr Anekstein’s 77-year-old nephew, visited the cemetery and discovered that a cross had been fixed to his uncle’s gravestone. </p>
<p>Feeling “saddened”, Mr Freedman contacted the Commonwealth War Graves Commission to have the mistake rectified. Now the commission has confirmed that “a new headstone with a star” has been erected”.</p>
<p>Yesterday, 14 family members conducted a service at the grave. </p>
<p>“A closure, in a way” said Mr Freedman.</p>
<p>Son of a minister from Holland Road Synagogue in Hove, Squadron Leader Anekstein became a pilot in 1942 and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. </p>
<p>He was known as a “captain of all sports”, to the extent that in the 1950s the Maccabi Cyril Anekstein Cup was created in tribute.</p>UK newsSecond World War110819story

This week marks the end of a two-year campaign by the family of Second World War hero pilot Cyril Anekstein to have a cross removed from his grave and replaced by a star of David.
Squadron Leader Anekstein was killed during a RAF bombing mission over Germany in August 1943 and buried in the Rheinberg cemetery.
In 2011, his Jerome Freedman, Mr Anekstein’s 77-year-old nephew, visited the cemetery and discovered that a cross had been fixed to his uncle’s gravestone.
Feeling “saddened”, Mr Freedman contacted the Commonwealth War Graves Commission to have the mistake rectified. Now the commission has confirmed that “a new headstone with a star” has been erected”.
Yesterday, 14 family members conducted a service at the grave.
“A closure, in a way” said Mr Freedman.
Son of a minister from Holland Road Synagogue in Hove, Squadron Leader Anekstein became a pilot in 1942 and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.
He was known as a “captain of all sports”, to the extent that in the 1950s the Maccabi Cyril Anekstein Cup was created in tribute.
Fri, 30 Aug 2013 13:30:16 +0100Zoe Winograd110819 at http://www.thejc.comAriella, 12, scores a home winhttp://www.thejc.com/community/community-life/110568/ariella-12-scores-a-home-win
<p>Twelve-year-old Ariella Raz from Stanmore “exceeded her expectations” in recording a 98 per cent score in her AS level maths exam.</p>
<p>Home-schooled since the age of nine —“you can do your studies in your pyjamas” — Ariella was anticipating a top result in GCSE further maths, having already attained an A* in GCSE maths. She hopes to sit A-level maths and GCSE physics and law next year.</p>
<p>Ariella’s mother, Sarah, said her daughter had been “bored and frustrated at regular school”, so the family elected to teach her at home. Twin sister Talia is a student at Yavneh College. </p>
<p>Reading a novel a day, Ariella has a particular love of historical fiction. But “mathematics is my passion”. She hopes to study maths at Cambridge and go on to become a mathematician.</p>
<p>Her parents are considering sending her back to school “to be a part of the community, make a wider circle of friends and further her Jewish education. But we have to find a solution where she won’t be bored out of her brains.”</p>Community lifeEducationStanmore110568storyhttp://www.thejc.com/files/Ariella Raz.jpg

Early learner: Ariella Raz

108118Pupils are changing — schools must change too110564Record results from the JFS A level pass masters
Twelve-year-old Ariella Raz from Stanmore “exceeded her expectations” in recording a 98 per cent score in her AS level maths exam.
Home-schooled since the age of nine —“you can do your studies in your pyjamas” — Ariella was anticipating a top result in GCSE further maths, having already attained an A* in GCSE maths. She hopes to sit A-level maths and GCSE physics and law next year.
Ariella’s mother, Sarah, said her daughter had been “bored and frustrated at regular school”, so the family elected to teach her at home. Twin sister Talia is a student at Yavneh College.
Reading a novel a day, Ariella has a particular love of historical fiction. But “mathematics is my passion”. She hopes to study maths at Cambridge and go on to become a mathematician.
Her parents are considering sending her back to school “to be a part of the community, make a wider circle of friends and further her Jewish education. But we have to find a solution where she won’t be bored out of her brains.”
Mon, 26 Aug 2013 11:06:30 +0100Zoe Winograd110568 at http://www.thejc.comRecord results from the JFS A level pass mastershttp://www.thejc.com/community/community-life/110564/record-results-jfs-a-level-pass-masters
<p>Anxiety over her A-level results roused JFS pupil Sophie Learman from her sleep at 4.30 in the morning. By 10.30 she could breathe more easily as she discovered that she had achieved the results she required to study linguistics at Leeds.</p>
<p>Sophie was among many pupils — some accompanied by parents — who gathered nervously at the JFS premises in Kenton last Thursday morning to discover how they had fared.</p>
<p>In most cases, the news was good as the school recorded record results, with 83 per cent of exams passed at grades between A*-B this year and almost 15 per cent of students achieving at least one A*. Seventy-seven attained at least three A grades.</p>
<p>Top achievers included Rachel Grabiner, who received A*s in maths and chemistry and As in biology and economics. “I’m still in shock,” she said, “I only got back from RSY camp last night so I think I need to go back to bed.” But she was sufficiently awake to congratulate schoolmate Jemma Green, who achieved A*s in history, politics and psychology. Jemma paid tribute to the “amazing support from my teachers — it’s such a nice end to my time at JFS.”</p>
<p>Not all the students had immediate plans for university. Katie Hamilton was “very undecided” about whether to study politics at Bristol university or take a gap year. Joel Rosenberg was set to fly to Tanzania the following day to spend the year travelling, volunteering and gaining work experience. With three A*s, Joel intends to study medicine when he returns. Jonathan Davis, who received two A*s and two As, had already started his gap year studying at a yeshivah.</p>
<p>Chesney Ovsiowitz seemed calm as a crowd of teachers and students looked over his shoulder to see his anxiously anticipated results.</p>
<p>With an A for English, A* for biology, A* for chemistry, A* for maths and an A for French, Chesney will study French and English at Oxford. Gil Reich will also be at Oxford thanks to A*s for biology, chemistry and physics. “I’m elated, it’s difficult to believe,” said the Bill Bryson science competition prize winner.</p>
<p>David Miron, Alexander Vukadinovic and Kirstie Trup — one of the victims of the acid attack in Zanzibar — were among those who achieved three A*s.</p>
<p>Josh Abraham and Jessica-Lynn Joseph were suitably all smiles when they discovered that their grades qualified them to study dentistry at university. The two were the only budding dentists in their year. </p>
<p>Among the proud parents was “a typical Jewish mum, bursting with pride” — Esther Webb with “very happy” daughter, Katie. JFS parent Eric Alter tightly hugged his son, Alex, when they read his results, two As and a B, which guaranteed him a spot at Leeds. Mr Alter said: “The school has done a great job, I can’t praise the school and the teachers highly enough.” </p>
<p>Mr Alter was not alone in praising JFS. Sasha Brooks credited her teachers for her place at Cambridge University. The humanities student scored 100 per cent in history plus As for English and drama. “I couldn’t have applied to Cambridge without the support of my teachers,” she said.</p>
<p>JFS head Jonathan Miller said “the results reflect the outstanding academic achievement of our students”.</p>Community lifeEducationKenton110564storyhttp://www.thejc.com/files/Francesca Goldhill, Lucy Curtis, Sophie Imber.jpg

Making the grades: Francesca Goldhill, Lucy Curtis and Sophie Imber find plenty to be pleased about on A-level results day at JFS

109366JFS students win prestigious science prize106951JFS boy's Premier League bid
Anxiety over her A-level results roused JFS pupil Sophie Learman from her sleep at 4.30 in the morning. By 10.30 she could breathe more easily as she discovered that she had achieved the results she required to study linguistics at Leeds.
Sophie was among many pupils — some accompanied by parents — who gathered nervously at the JFS premises in Kenton last Thursday morning to discover how they had fared.
In most cases, the news was good as the school recorded record results, with 83 per cent of exams passed at grades between A*-B this year and almost 15 per cent of students achieving at least one A*. Seventy-seven attained at least three A grades.
Top achievers included Rachel Grabiner, who received A*s in maths and chemistry and As in biology and economics. “I’m still in shock,” she said, “I only got back from RSY camp last night so I think I need to go back to bed.” But she was sufficiently awake to congratulate schoolmate Jemma Green, who achieved A*s in history, politics and psychology. Jemma paid tribute to the “amazing support from my teachers — it’s such a nice end to my time at JFS.”
Not all the students had immediate plans for university. Katie Hamilton was “very undecided” about whether to study politics at Bristol university or take a gap year. Joel Rosenberg was set to fly to Tanzania the following day to spend the year travelling, volunteering and gaining work experience. With three A*s, Joel intends to study medicine when he returns. Jonathan Davis, who received two A*s and two As, had already started his gap year studying at a yeshivah.
Chesney Ovsiowitz seemed calm as a crowd of teachers and students looked over his shoulder to see his anxiously anticipated results.
With an A for English, A* for biology, A* for chemistry, A* for maths and an A for French, Chesney will study French and English at Oxford. Gil Reich will also be at Oxford thanks to A*s for biology, chemistry and physics. “I’m elated, it’s difficult to believe,” said the Bill Bryson science competition prize winner.
David Miron, Alexander Vukadinovic and Kirstie Trup — one of the victims of the acid attack in Zanzibar — were among those who achieved three A*s.
Josh Abraham and Jessica-Lynn Joseph were suitably all smiles when they discovered that their grades qualified them to study dentistry at university. The two were the only budding dentists in their year.
Among the proud parents was “a typical Jewish mum, bursting with pride” — Esther Webb with “very happy” daughter, Katie. JFS parent Eric Alter tightly hugged his son, Alex, when they read his results, two As and a B, which guaranteed him a spot at Leeds. Mr Alter said: “The school has done a great job, I can’t praise the school and the teachers highly enough.”
Mr Alter was not alone in praising JFS. Sasha Brooks credited her teachers for her place at Cambridge University. The humanities student scored 100 per cent in history plus As for English and drama. “I couldn’t have applied to Cambridge without the support of my teachers,” she said.
JFS head Jonathan Miller said “the results reflect the outstanding academic achievement of our students”.
Mon, 26 Aug 2013 10:22:00 +0100Zoe Winograd110564 at http://www.thejc.com‘WW1 Victoria Cross winner should be honoured like other heroes’http://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/110536/ww1-victoria-cross-winner-should-be-honoured-other-heroes%E2%80%99
<p>The honorary president of the Jewish Military Museum, Henry Morris, has said that the government is wrong in denying a tribute to a Jewish Victoria Cross winner because he was not born in Britain.</p>
<p>Issy Smith, who fought for the British army in the First World War, will not be among the 480 soldiers to be honoured with special paving stones. Only those born here are eligible. Sergeant Smith was born in Egypt, but lived in Manchester for a number of years.</p>
<p>Mr Morris, himself a war veteran, described the decision as “disappointing”. </p>
<p>He said: “Issy Smith should be getting a paving stone. He fought for Britain and that is good enough for me. They have adopted a criterion which is a little narrow.”</p>
<p>Born Ishroulch Shmeilowitz in Alexandria in 1890, Sergeant Smith joined the British army in 1904. He served for the first battalion in the Manchester regiment and was awarded a VC for carrying “a wounded soldier 250 yards to safety while exposed to heavy machine gun fire” on April 26 1915. He died in Melbourne, Australia in 1940, aged 49.</p>
<p>Four Jewish VC winners — Frank de Pass, Jack White, Robert Gee and Leonard Keysor — are to be commemorated with paving stones, which will be laid outside their places of birth during the next four years, marking the centenary of the war’s outbreak. </p>
<p>The Foreign Office said it was working on plans to recognise the bravery of VC recipients from the Commonwealth, after claims that they were being overlooked. </p>
<p>However, soldiers from non-Commonwealth countries, such as Egypt, would not benefit.</p>UK newsAjexSecond World WarFirst World War110536storyhttp://www.thejc.com/files/issy smith.JPG

Issy Smith

110142Paving the way to honour heroes of the Great War 7872We can look back on the Great War with pride
The honorary president of the Jewish Military Museum, Henry Morris, has said that the government is wrong in denying a tribute to a Jewish Victoria Cross winner because he was not born in Britain.
Issy Smith, who fought for the British army in the First World War, will not be among the 480 soldiers to be honoured with special paving stones. Only those born here are eligible. Sergeant Smith was born in Egypt, but lived in Manchester for a number of years.
Mr Morris, himself a war veteran, described the decision as “disappointing”.
He said: “Issy Smith should be getting a paving stone. He fought for Britain and that is good enough for me. They have adopted a criterion which is a little narrow.”
Born Ishroulch Shmeilowitz in Alexandria in 1890, Sergeant Smith joined the British army in 1904. He served for the first battalion in the Manchester regiment and was awarded a VC for carrying “a wounded soldier 250 yards to safety while exposed to heavy machine gun fire” on April 26 1915. He died in Melbourne, Australia in 1940, aged 49.
Four Jewish VC winners — Frank de Pass, Jack White, Robert Gee and Leonard Keysor — are to be commemorated with paving stones, which will be laid outside their places of birth during the next four years, marking the centenary of the war’s outbreak.
The Foreign Office said it was working on plans to recognise the bravery of VC recipients from the Commonwealth, after claims that they were being overlooked.
However, soldiers from non-Commonwealth countries, such as Egypt, would not benefit.
Fri, 23 Aug 2013 13:01:59 +0100Zoe Winograd110536 at http://www.thejc.comIsraeli air force strikes terror target in Lebanonhttp://www.thejc.com/news/israel-news/110652/israeli-air-force-strikes-terror-target-lebanon
<p>The Israeli Air Force has attacked a terror site in Lebanon.</p>
<p>According to an IDF spokesman, the raid took place early on Friday morning in retaliation to the two rockets launched from Lebanon on Thursday.</p>
<p>Military spokesman Lieutanent Colonel Peter Lerner announced that the strike had taken place. He said: "Israel will not tolerate terrorist aggression originating from Lebanese territory.”</p>
<p>The destroyed target was resported as a group of tunnels used as rocket launch pads.</p>
<p>Defence Minister Moshe Ya’alon said : "The state of Israel is holding the Lebanese government accountable for what is going on in its territory and will not sit by with every firing or provocation. We will not let anyone disrupt our citizens' lives."</p>Israel newsLebanonIDF110652storyhttp://www.thejc.com/files/Fighter jet (Photo Flash 90)_0.JPG

Fighter jet (Photo: Flash 90)

110598IDF: north Israel attack ‘not an escalation’109246IDF fears jihadists may ‘sweep the region’
The Israeli Air Force has attacked a terror site in Lebanon.
According to an IDF spokesman, the raid took place early on Friday morning in retaliation to the two rockets launched from Lebanon on Thursday.
Military spokesman Lieutanent Colonel Peter Lerner announced that the strike had taken place. He said: "Israel will not tolerate terrorist aggression originating from Lebanese territory.”
The destroyed target was resported as a group of tunnels used as rocket launch pads.
Defence Minister Moshe Ya’alon said : "The state of Israel is holding the Lebanese government accountable for what is going on in its territory and will not sit by with every firing or provocation. We will not let anyone disrupt our citizens' lives."
Fri, 23 Aug 2013 12:44:33 +0100Zoe Winograd110652 at http://www.thejc.comRosh Hashanah wishes from the PMhttp://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/110563/rosh-hashanah-wishes-pm
<p>The Jewish community has received early Rosh Hashanah greetings from British political leaders.</p>
<p>Prime Minister David Cameron said: “I send my best wishes to Jews in the UK and around the world observing the High Holy Days of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.” The Prime Minister shared his hopes for “lasting peace in Israel and the Middle East”, and acknowledged “all those who have taken the brave step to return to the negotiating table”.</p>
<p>He added: “I’d also like to applaud Britain’s strong Jewish community for their historic and immense contribution to our country.”</p>
<p>Labour leader Ed Miliband said that “these ten days… are an important time for personal reflection”.</p>
<p>He expressed his gratitude to the Jewish community and his “admiration for its values” which include “a reaffirmation of life, the pursuit of justice and a commitment to make the world a better place.”</p>UK newsYom KippurPoliticsRosh Hashanah110563story

82770Occupy Judaism leads Rosh Hashanah demonstration109887Orli’s plans for Britain impress David Cameron
The Jewish community has received early Rosh Hashanah greetings from British political leaders.
Prime Minister David Cameron said: “I send my best wishes to Jews in the UK and around the world observing the High Holy Days of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.” The Prime Minister shared his hopes for “lasting peace in Israel and the Middle East”, and acknowledged “all those who have taken the brave step to return to the negotiating table”.
He added: “I’d also like to applaud Britain’s strong Jewish community for their historic and immense contribution to our country.”
Labour leader Ed Miliband said that “these ten days… are an important time for personal reflection”.
He expressed his gratitude to the Jewish community and his “admiration for its values” which include “a reaffirmation of life, the pursuit of justice and a commitment to make the world a better place.”
Fri, 23 Aug 2013 11:00:18 +0100Zoe Winograd110563 at http://www.thejc.comThe Book Thiefhttp://www.thejc.com/videos/news-videos/the-book-thief
An early peak at the film adaptation of Markus Zusak's best selling novel, The Book Thief.
In the film, Oscar-winning actor Geoffrey Rush and Emily Watson play the central characters who hide a Jewish man from the Nazis during the Second World War.
Published in 2006, The Book Thief was listed on the The New York Times best seller list for over 230 weeks.
News videosLiteratureNazismThe HolocaustFilmFri, 23 Aug 2013 10:10:50 +0100Zoe Winograd110645 at http://www.thejc.comADL accuse Roger Waters over boycott callhttp://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/110641/adl-accuse-roger-waters-over-boycott-call
<p>The Anti-Defamation League has accused rock musician Roger Waters of 'anti-Jewish sentiment' in his call for a boycott of Israel.</p>
<p>In an open letter to the Pink Floyd guitarist published on the organisation's website, ADL national director wrote that Mr Waters' recent statements were "colored by offensive and dangerous undercurrents of anti-Jewish sentiment".</p>
<p>Mr Foxman highlighted Mr Waters’ use of an inflatable pig bearing star of David as a stage prop in a recent tour.</p>
<p>He also cited what he believed to be several inaccuracies in a letter by Mr Waters published on Facebook which singled out "Israel for a boycott, while ignoring real human rights abusing countries around the world”.</p>
<p>Earlier this week, Mr Waters expressed support for violinist Nigel Kennedy after he drew criticism for describing Israel as an apartheid state during a Proms concert at the Royal Albert Hall.</p>UK newsIsraelAntisemitismMusic110641storyhttp://www.thejc.com/files/roger waters.jpg

Roger Waters (Photo: Daigo Oliva)

110522Bar Refaeli hits out at Pink Floyd's Roger Waters over Israel boycott105367Israel boycott activist Roger Waters angry after Jewish talk cancelled
The Anti-Defamation League has accused rock musician Roger Waters of 'anti-Jewish sentiment' in his call for a boycott of Israel.
In an open letter to the Pink Floyd guitarist published on the organisation's website, ADL national director wrote that Mr Waters' recent statements were "colored by offensive and dangerous undercurrents of anti-Jewish sentiment".
Mr Foxman highlighted Mr Waters’ use of an inflatable pig bearing star of David as a stage prop in a recent tour.
He also cited what he believed to be several inaccuracies in a letter by Mr Waters published on Facebook which singled out "Israel for a boycott, while ignoring real human rights abusing countries around the world”.
Earlier this week, Mr Waters expressed support for violinist Nigel Kennedy after he drew criticism for describing Israel as an apartheid state during a Proms concert at the Royal Albert Hall.
Fri, 23 Aug 2013 10:00:39 +0100Zoe Winograd110641 at http://www.thejc.comMy barmitzvah? I had six million viewershttp://www.thejc.com/news/world-news/110526/my-barmitzvah-i-had-six-million-viewers
<p>Texan 13-year-old Sam Horowitz did not appear content with the 500,000 hits his glitzy barmitzvah show garnered on YouTube.</p>
<p>Last week, Sam took the show to Times Square and performed the routine with backing dancers on Good Morning America — which has average viewing figures of 5.5 million.</p>
<p>In the original performance at his barmitzvah, Sam descended from the ceiling inside a huge chandelier and, wearing a sparkling white suit, led a slick dance routine in front of an audience of hundreds. The video was posted on a Jewish parenting site and then on YouTube. </p>
<p>The responses on YouTube comment threads, however, were not entirely complimentary. Some viewers called Sam “spoilt” and his barmitzvah “over-the-top.” One man wrote: “‘What is this? ‘Keeping up with the Steins’? Sorry, I find it vulgar and humiliating.”</p>
<p>Sam seemed unfazed as he recreated his performance in Times Square. “It’s like a dream,” he told the Good Morning America presenter. </p>World newsJewish life110526storyhttp://www.thejc.com/files/barmitzvah boy photo getty images.JPG

Sam Horowitz dancing in Times Square (Photo: Getty images)

101197Flash-dance for Langdon103666Klezmer Concert and Dance
Texan 13-year-old Sam Horowitz did not appear content with the 500,000 hits his glitzy barmitzvah show garnered on YouTube.
Last week, Sam took the show to Times Square and performed the routine with backing dancers on Good Morning America — which has average viewing figures of 5.5 million.
In the original performance at his barmitzvah, Sam descended from the ceiling inside a huge chandelier and, wearing a sparkling white suit, led a slick dance routine in front of an audience of hundreds. The video was posted on a Jewish parenting site and then on YouTube.
The responses on YouTube comment threads, however, were not entirely complimentary. Some viewers called Sam “spoilt” and his barmitzvah “over-the-top.” One man wrote: “‘What is this? ‘Keeping up with the Steins’? Sorry, I find it vulgar and humiliating.”
Sam seemed unfazed as he recreated his performance in Times Square. “It’s like a dream,” he told the Good Morning America presenter.
Thu, 22 Aug 2013 21:00:42 +0100Zoe Winograd110526 at http://www.thejc.comMystery buyer saves Jerusalem tapestrieshttp://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/110532/mystery-buyer-saves-jerusalem-tapestries
<p>Rare silk hangings depicting scenes from the Temple in Jerusalem have been saved for the nation by a mystery buyer who has paid £120,000 to stop them going abroad.</p>
<p>The seven hand-embroidered tapestries, made in the 18th century, probably in Italy or Holland, have belonged to a private owner in Britain for the past 50 years. </p>
<p>They were put up for sale in March, but Culture Minister Ed Vaizey stepped in to prevent them being sold abroad, explaining that they had “outstanding significance for the study of Jewish ritual art.”</p>
<p>The initial export ban ended in May but was extended to August 20 in a bid to find a buyer who would allow them to remain in Britain.</p>
<p>This week, the Arts Council announced that “the items will be staying in the country”, having been bought by an unnamed UK-based buyer.</p>
<p>An Arts Council spokesman also confirmed that “the works will be put on public display”.</p>UK newsArt110532storyhttp://www.thejc.com/files/tapestries.JPG

Rare silk hangings that fetched £120,000 will now stay in the UK

107857Culture Minister bid to keep tapestries in the UK54428Hall of Fame: Ed Vaizey
Rare silk hangings depicting scenes from the Temple in Jerusalem have been saved for the nation by a mystery buyer who has paid £120,000 to stop them going abroad.
The seven hand-embroidered tapestries, made in the 18th century, probably in Italy or Holland, have belonged to a private owner in Britain for the past 50 years.
They were put up for sale in March, but Culture Minister Ed Vaizey stepped in to prevent them being sold abroad, explaining that they had “outstanding significance for the study of Jewish ritual art.”
The initial export ban ended in May but was extended to August 20 in a bid to find a buyer who would allow them to remain in Britain.
This week, the Arts Council announced that “the items will be staying in the country”, having been bought by an unnamed UK-based buyer.
An Arts Council spokesman also confirmed that “the works will be put on public display”.
Thu, 22 Aug 2013 17:00:05 +0100Zoe Winograd110532 at http://www.thejc.comMerkel defended over ‘tasteless’ Dachau decisionhttp://www.thejc.com/news/world-news/110517/merkel-defended-over-tasteless%E2%80%99-dachau-decision
<p>The Conference of European Rabbis has backed German chancellor Angela Merkel who has been criticised for speaking at an election rally in Dachau on the same day that she visited the town’s Second World War concentration camp.</p>
<p>Mrs Merkel laid a wreath at the site of the Dachau concentration camp on Tuesday morning. The chancellor met survivors and commented that Dachau represented "a horrible and unprecedented chapter of our history". </p>
<p>Following her visit to the camp, Mrs Merkel attended an election rally which was held in a beer tent in the town of Dachau. </p>
<p>The chancellor’s political opponents called the visits “a tasteless and outrageous combination.”</p>
<p>Renate Kuenast, leader of the opposition Green party, said: "If you're serious about commemoration at such a place of horrors, then you don't pay such a visit during an election campaign."</p>
<p>Chief Rabbi Pinchas Goldschmidt, President of the Conference of European Rabbis, expressed his support for Mrs Merkel. </p>
<p>He said: "Mrs Merkel has absolutely nothing to prove regarding her commitment Holocaust memorial and suggestions that her visit to Dachau is disingenuous are quite offensive. Mrs Merkel was awarded the Lord Jakobovits Prize for European Jewry this year for the dedication she has shown throughout her life to learning the lessons of the Shoah."</p>
<p>No other German head of government has visited Dachau concentration camp.</p>World newsThe HolocaustGermany110517storyhttp://www.thejc.com/files/angela merkel face.JPG

Angela Merkel

107869Angela Merkel honoured for opposing antisemitism70235Chancellor Merkel furious over German circumcision row
The Conference of European Rabbis has backed German chancellor Angela Merkel who has been criticised for speaking at an election rally in Dachau on the same day that she visited the town’s Second World War concentration camp.
Mrs Merkel laid a wreath at the site of the Dachau concentration camp on Tuesday morning. The chancellor met survivors and commented that Dachau represented "a horrible and unprecedented chapter of our history".
Following her visit to the camp, Mrs Merkel attended an election rally which was held in a beer tent in the town of Dachau.
The chancellor’s political opponents called the visits “a tasteless and outrageous combination.”
Renate Kuenast, leader of the opposition Green party, said: "If you're serious about commemoration at such a place of horrors, then you don't pay such a visit during an election campaign."
Chief Rabbi Pinchas Goldschmidt, President of the Conference of European Rabbis, expressed his support for Mrs Merkel.
He said: "Mrs Merkel has absolutely nothing to prove regarding her commitment Holocaust memorial and suggestions that her visit to Dachau is disingenuous are quite offensive. Mrs Merkel was awarded the Lord Jakobovits Prize for European Jewry this year for the dedication she has shown throughout her life to learning the lessons of the Shoah."
No other German head of government has visited Dachau concentration camp.
Wed, 21 Aug 2013 15:34:00 +0100Zoe Winograd110517 at http://www.thejc.comTopless model photo shoot at Jewish cemeteryhttp://www.thejc.com/news/world-news/110490/topless-model-photo-shoot-jewish-cemetery
<p>A Polish photographer has been criticised for using a half-naked model in a photo shoot at a Jewish cemetery.</p>
<p>Photographer Lukasz Szczygielski asked a topless model wearing a necklace with a cross to pose against headstones in an attempt to bring attention to the neglected cemetery in Checiny.</p>
<p>“The cemetery is forgotten,” he told Polish newspaper Gazeta Wyborcza. </p>
<p>Piotr Kadlcik, president of the Union of Jewish Religious Communities, said: “One can draw attention to the Jewish cemetery in a number of other, far less shocking ways.” </p>
<p>Krzysztof Bielawski, of the History of Polish Jews Museum, told the local television station TVP Kielce: “I would prefer that this man clean up the cemetery rather than doing a naked session there.”</p>
<p>Mr Szcygielski apoligised for the photo shoot. “If it offended anyone, I deeply apologise,” he told TVP Kielce, “this was not the intention of the session.”</p>World newscemeteriesPoland110490storyhttp://www.thejc.com/files/jewish cemetery.JPG

Jewish cemetery in Checiny

104031Bath cemetery gets second stage of repairs101721Manchester cemetery puts case to inquiry
A Polish photographer has been criticised for using a half-naked model in a photo shoot at a Jewish cemetery.
Photographer Lukasz Szczygielski asked a topless model wearing a necklace with a cross to pose against headstones in an attempt to bring attention to the neglected cemetery in Checiny.
“The cemetery is forgotten,” he told Polish newspaper Gazeta Wyborcza.
Piotr Kadlcik, president of the Union of Jewish Religious Communities, said: “One can draw attention to the Jewish cemetery in a number of other, far less shocking ways.”
Krzysztof Bielawski, of the History of Polish Jews Museum, told the local television station TVP Kielce: “I would prefer that this man clean up the cemetery rather than doing a naked session there.”
Mr Szcygielski apoligised for the photo shoot. “If it offended anyone, I deeply apologise,” he told TVP Kielce, “this was not the intention of the session.”
Tue, 20 Aug 2013 17:15:14 +0100Zoe Winograd110490 at http://www.thejc.comErdogan blames Israel for Egypt couphttp://www.thejc.com/news/world-news/110477/erdogan-blames-israel-egypt-coup
<p>Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayip Erdogan has accused Israel of being behind the coup in Egypt.</p>
<p>According to Turkish sources, Mr Erdogan met members of his party on Tuesday and said: "Israel is behind the coup in Egypt, we have evidence." </p>
<p>Reportedly, Mr Erdogan also mentioned an unnamed French Jewish academic who, according to the Turkish leader, said that the Muslim Brotherhood would not gain leadership because "democracy is not the ballot box".</p>
<p>Despite efforts at reconciliation, ties have been discontinued between Turkey and Israel since the flotilla incident in 2010. </p>World newsIsraelEgyptTurkey110477storyhttp://www.thejc.com/files/erdogan face.JPG

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayip Erdogan

106890'With Erdogan in place Turkey can't be an ally'103164Why Erdogan is taking his anti-Israel drive to next level
Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayip Erdogan has accused Israel of being behind the coup in Egypt.
According to Turkish sources, Mr Erdogan met members of his party on Tuesday and said: "Israel is behind the coup in Egypt, we have evidence."
Reportedly, Mr Erdogan also mentioned an unnamed French Jewish academic who, according to the Turkish leader, said that the Muslim Brotherhood would not gain leadership because "democracy is not the ballot box".
Despite efforts at reconciliation, ties have been discontinued between Turkey and Israel since the flotilla incident in 2010.
Tue, 20 Aug 2013 11:58:57 +0100Zoe Winograd110477 at http://www.thejc.comLeeds professor rejects Polish award over antisemitic slurshttp://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/110471/leeds-professor-rejects-polish-award-over-antisemitic-slurs
<p>The former chair of sociology at the University of Leeds has rejected an honorary doctorate from a Polish university, blaming antisemitic attacks against him.</p>
<p>Following the announcement that professor emeritus Zygmunt Bauman was to receive an honorary doctorate at the University of Lower Silesia in Wroclaw on October 24, the 87-year-old philosopher received several antisemitic attacks via social media internet sites.</p>
<p>According to reports these comments included,“I cannot stand the Jewish Bolshevik”, “Death to the Zionist plague of mankind”, and “Down with Judeo-Communism” . </p>
<p>In his letter declining the doctorate, Professor Bauman expressed his desire to protect the university from an “unnecessary uproar” . </p>
<p>Leeds University rector Robert Barberry called the situation “a capitulation to the extreme right” . </p>
<p>In 1968 the Polish academic , who is known for his work on the internet as a destructive force in society, lost his professorship at the University of Warsaw as a result of an antisemitic campaign against him. He came to Britain after teaching at Tel Aviv University.</p>UK newsPolandAntisemitismEducation110471storyhttp://www.thejc.com/files/zygmunt.jpg

Zygmunt Bauman

50648Bob Geldof accepts an honorary doctorate at BGU108966Pope says antisemitism ‘not Christian’
The former chair of sociology at the University of Leeds has rejected an honorary doctorate from a Polish university, blaming antisemitic attacks against him.
Following the announcement that professor emeritus Zygmunt Bauman was to receive an honorary doctorate at the University of Lower Silesia in Wroclaw on October 24, the 87-year-old philosopher received several antisemitic attacks via social media internet sites.
According to reports these comments included,“I cannot stand the Jewish Bolshevik”, “Death to the Zionist plague of mankind”, and “Down with Judeo-Communism” .
In his letter declining the doctorate, Professor Bauman expressed his desire to protect the university from an “unnecessary uproar” .
Leeds University rector Robert Barberry called the situation “a capitulation to the extreme right” .
In 1968 the Polish academic , who is known for his work on the internet as a destructive force in society, lost his professorship at the University of Warsaw as a result of an antisemitic campaign against him. He came to Britain after teaching at Tel Aviv University.
Tue, 20 Aug 2013 09:54:29 +0100Zoe Winograd110471 at http://www.thejc.comChief Rabbi: multiculturalism has 'had its day'http://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/110422/chief-rabbi-multiculturalism-has-had-its-day
<p>Chief Rabbi Lord Sacks has said that multi-culturalism in the UK has “had its day” and has criticised the government for not doing enough to encourage marriage.</p>
<p>In an interview with The Times, he said that multiculturalism had caused "segregation and inward-looking communities. </p>
<p>The chief rabbi, who retires next month after 22 years at his post, likened multicultural society to empty hotel. He said: "It doesn't belong to anyone, we've each got our own room and so long as we don't disturb the neighbours we can do whatever we like.”</p>
<p>Lord Sacks acknowledged that the Islamic communities may have more trouble assimilating. "We've had 26 centuries of experience which most Muslims haven't," he said, "The norm was for Muslims to live under a Muslim jurisdiction and the norm since the destruction of the first temple was for Jews to live under a non-Jewish jurisdiction."</p>
<p>Lord Sacks said that Prime Minister David Cameron should do more to support mothers at home and offer tax incentives to mar ried couples . "I think the government has not done enough," he said.</p>
<p>"[The government] should certainly recognise marriage in the tax system, it should certainly give more support to mothers who stay at home or for childcare provision," he said.</p>
<p>It is believed Lord Sacks’ comments may reignite ministerial debates on the topic. Chancellor George Osborne has already guaranteed a tax break for married couples despite the opposition within the coalition.</p>UK newsLord Jonathan Sacks110422storyhttp://www.thejc.com/files/chief rabbi tribute_0.JPG

British Prime Minister David Cameron and Chief Rabbi Jonathan Sacks

110318My question to the Chief Rabbi— was it OK to fancy him? 108976Chief Rabbi Jonathan Sacks Tribute Evening
Chief Rabbi Lord Sacks has said that multi-culturalism in the UK has “had its day” and has criticised the government for not doing enough to encourage marriage.
In an interview with The Times, he said that multiculturalism had caused "segregation and inward-looking communities.
The chief rabbi, who retires next month after 22 years at his post, likened multicultural society to empty hotel. He said: "It doesn't belong to anyone, we've each got our own room and so long as we don't disturb the neighbours we can do whatever we like.”
Lord Sacks acknowledged that the Islamic communities may have more trouble assimilating. "We've had 26 centuries of experience which most Muslims haven't," he said, "The norm was for Muslims to live under a Muslim jurisdiction and the norm since the destruction of the first temple was for Jews to live under a non-Jewish jurisdiction."
Lord Sacks said that Prime Minister David Cameron should do more to support mothers at home and offer tax incentives to mar ried couples . "I think the government has not done enough," he said.
"[The government] should certainly recognise marriage in the tax system, it should certainly give more support to mothers who stay at home or for childcare provision," he said.
It is believed Lord Sacks’ comments may reignite ministerial debates on the topic. Chancellor George Osborne has already guaranteed a tax break for married couples despite the opposition within the coalition.
Mon, 19 Aug 2013 09:27:31 +0100Zoe Winograd110422 at http://www.thejc.comJFS A stars achieve record resultshttp://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/110338/jfs-a-stars-achieve-record-results
<p>JFS A-level students achieved record results with 83 per cent of exams passed with grades between A*-B. Almost 15 per cent of pupils received at least one A*.</p>
<p>Gil Reich was one of the top achievers with A*s in biology, chemistry and physics. “I’m elated, it’s difficult to believe,” said Gil, who hopes to study biology at Oxford. </p>
<p>Joel Rosenberg “couldn’t be happier” with his A*s in biology, chemistry and maths. He is off to Tanzania for the beginning of his gap year, which he will spend travelling, volunteering and gaining work experience. He intends to go on to study medicine.</p>
<p>Another with three A*s was former head boy David Miron. “I’m over the moon ," he said. "It was tough but it was worth it.” </p>
<p>Jemma Green received A*s in history, politics and psychology and paid tribute to the “amazing support from my teachers – it's such a nice end to my time at JFS.” </p>
<p>Also thankful to JFS staff was Sasha Brooks, who credited them for her successful application to study at Cambridge. </p>
<p>And Josh Abraham and Jessica-Lynn Joseph were suitably all smiles on learning that their grades qualified them to study dentistry.</p>
<p>JFS head Jonathan Miller said: “These record results reflect the outstanding academic achievement of all our students." </p>UK newsEducationJFS110338storyhttp://www.thejc.com/files/JFS a level results.JPG

Some of the JFS students who received their A level results this morning

76956A Levels: Summer 2012 76897JFS A Level student celebrates results with teacher
JFS A-level students achieved record results with 83 per cent of exams passed with grades between A*-B. Almost 15 per cent of pupils received at least one A*.
Gil Reich was one of the top achievers with A*s in biology, chemistry and physics. “I’m elated, it’s difficult to believe,” said Gil, who hopes to study biology at Oxford.
Joel Rosenberg “couldn’t be happier” with his A*s in biology, chemistry and maths. He is off to Tanzania for the beginning of his gap year, which he will spend travelling, volunteering and gaining work experience. He intends to go on to study medicine.
Another with three A*s was former head boy David Miron. “I’m over the moon ," he said. "It was tough but it was worth it.”
Jemma Green received A*s in history, politics and psychology and paid tribute to the “amazing support from my teachers – it's such a nice end to my time at JFS.”
Also thankful to JFS staff was Sasha Brooks, who credited them for her successful application to study at Cambridge.
And Josh Abraham and Jessica-Lynn Joseph were suitably all smiles on learning that their grades qualified them to study dentistry.
JFS head Jonathan Miller said: “These record results reflect the outstanding academic achievement of all our students."
Fri, 16 Aug 2013 10:00:19 +0100Zoe Winograd110338 at http://www.thejc.comDead cyclist was due to meet his grandchild for first timehttp://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/110316/dead-cyclist-was-due-meet-his-grandchild-first-time
<p>A cyclist died after being hit by a lorry only days before he was due to meet his granddaughter for the first time.</p>
<p>Retired GP Clive Richards suffered a heart attack after he was struck by a lorry on Archway Road in Highgate last week.</p>
<p>The 67-year-old grandfather, from Whetstone, was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics. No arrests have been made. </p>
<p>Dr Richards leaves a wife, Yvonne, two children and three grandchildren, one of whom was born four months ago in France and was to meet her grandfather for the first time in London this week.</p>
<p>His brother Michael Richards said that the family was struggling to come to terms with his death. </p>
<p>He recalled: “Clive loved cycling — he would cycle for two to three hours at the weekend. He was very competent and experienced. We are in shock.” </p>
<p>Dr Richards, a member of New North London Synagogue, worked at the Lister Medical Centre in Harlow for 33 years. </p>
<p>According to his brother, the day he left the centre, “there were so many appointments made by patients that the practice came to a standstill. So many people wanted to say goodbye”. </p>
<p>Dr Richards retired two months ago after working at the Rise Group Practice in north London since 2006.</p>
<p>He was on the committee of Project Harmony which promoted interfaith activities between Israeli Arab and Jewish children. “Israel was very important to him and so was the committee,” said his brother. </p>
<p>More than 400 people attended his funeral. “He was a very caring human being — a mensch — and gave freely of his time to help others” said his brother. </p>
<p>“No one could ever say a bad word about him. Sitting shiva, so many people said that they had such a deep and profound respect for him.”</p>UK newsHighgate110316storyhttp://www.thejc.com/files/Clive Richards.jpg

Dr Clive Richards

A cyclist died after being hit by a lorry only days before he was due to meet his granddaughter for the first time.
Retired GP Clive Richards suffered a heart attack after he was struck by a lorry on Archway Road in Highgate last week.
The 67-year-old grandfather, from Whetstone, was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics. No arrests have been made.
Dr Richards leaves a wife, Yvonne, two children and three grandchildren, one of whom was born four months ago in France and was to meet her grandfather for the first time in London this week.
His brother Michael Richards said that the family was struggling to come to terms with his death.
He recalled: “Clive loved cycling — he would cycle for two to three hours at the weekend. He was very competent and experienced. We are in shock.”
Dr Richards, a member of New North London Synagogue, worked at the Lister Medical Centre in Harlow for 33 years.
According to his brother, the day he left the centre, “there were so many appointments made by patients that the practice came to a standstill. So many people wanted to say goodbye”.
Dr Richards retired two months ago after working at the Rise Group Practice in north London since 2006.
He was on the committee of Project Harmony which promoted interfaith activities between Israeli Arab and Jewish children. “Israel was very important to him and so was the committee,” said his brother.
More than 400 people attended his funeral. “He was a very caring human being — a mensch — and gave freely of his time to help others” said his brother.
“No one could ever say a bad word about him. Sitting shiva, so many people said that they had such a deep and profound respect for him.”
Thu, 15 Aug 2013 16:48:22 +0100Zoe Winograd110316 at http://www.thejc.comJewish gay groups back Stephen Fry over Russian anti-gay lawhttp://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/110320/jewish-gay-groups-back-stephen-fry-over-russian-anti-gay-law
<p>Jewish Gays and lesbians have praised Stephen Fry over his stand against the Russian anti-gay law.</p>
<p>The actor caused controversy when he highlighted the Moscow government’s recent decision to impose heavy fines for anyone providing information about homosexuality to people under 18.</p>
<p>Mr Fry suggested that President Vladimir Putin was “making scapegoats of gay people, just as Hitler did Jews”.</p>
<p>In a letter to the Prime Minister David Cameron and the International Olympics Committee, he called for a boycott of the 2014 Winter Olympic Games which will by hosted by Russia. </p>
<p>The broadcaster accepted that it was unlikely that the Games would be boycotted or moved from Russia, but believed that protests from athletes would show solidarity with gay rights campaigners.</p>
<p>On his website, Mr Fry declared that Hitler “banned Jews from academic tenure or public office, he made sure that the police turned a blind eye to any beatings, thefts or humiliations afflicted on them… Putin is eerily repeating this insane crime, only this time against LGBT [lesbian, gay, bisexual and transsexual] Russians.” </p>
<p>He continued: “I am gay. I am a Jew. My mother lost over a dozen of her family to Hitler’s antisemitism. Every time in Russia a gay teenager is forced into suicide, a lesbian ‘correctively’ raped, gay men and women beaten to death by neo-Nazi thugs while the Russian police stand idly by, the world is diminished and I for one, weep anew at seeing history repeat itself.”</p>
<p>The Jewish Gay and Lesbian group, lauded Mr Fry for speaking out. Spokesperson Karen Newman said: “What Stephen Fry is doing is valuble because it draws attention to what is happening in Russia.</p>
<p>“The legislation in itself is of course regrettable, but what makes it worse is the chill effect. It is so much more difficult to be gay and lesbian in countries with legislation like that and the concern is the green light that it gives people to participate in gay-bashing.”</p>
<p>Mr Cameron has thanked Mr Fry for his letter but objected to the boycott. He tweeted: “I believe we can better challenge prejudice as we attend, rather than boycotting the Winter Olympics.”</p>
<p>On August 12 Mr Fry met Mr Cameron in a pub co-owned by actor and gay rights activist Sir Ian McKellen.</p>
<p>“They have a very pleasant discussion,” said one source, “Mr Cameron explained in detail why he thought we should attend the games… Mr Fry asked him how Britain would use its attendance to make the case for gay rights and seemed pleased at the replies he received.”</p>UK newsRussiaHomosexuality110320storyhttp://www.thejc.com/files/Stephen Fry.JPG

Stephen Fry’s stance has been applauded by Jewish gays and lesbians in the UK

109793Chabad Rabbi shot in south west Russia
Jewish Gays and lesbians have praised Stephen Fry over his stand against the Russian anti-gay law.
The actor caused controversy when he highlighted the Moscow government’s recent decision to impose heavy fines for anyone providing information about homosexuality to people under 18.
Mr Fry suggested that President Vladimir Putin was “making scapegoats of gay people, just as Hitler did Jews”.
In a letter to the Prime Minister David Cameron and the International Olympics Committee, he called for a boycott of the 2014 Winter Olympic Games which will by hosted by Russia.
The broadcaster accepted that it was unlikely that the Games would be boycotted or moved from Russia, but believed that protests from athletes would show solidarity with gay rights campaigners.
On his website, Mr Fry declared that Hitler “banned Jews from academic tenure or public office, he made sure that the police turned a blind eye to any beatings, thefts or humiliations afflicted on them… Putin is eerily repeating this insane crime, only this time against LGBT [lesbian, gay, bisexual and transsexual] Russians.”
He continued: “I am gay. I am a Jew. My mother lost over a dozen of her family to Hitler’s antisemitism. Every time in Russia a gay teenager is forced into suicide, a lesbian ‘correctively’ raped, gay men and women beaten to death by neo-Nazi thugs while the Russian police stand idly by, the world is diminished and I for one, weep anew at seeing history repeat itself.”
The Jewish Gay and Lesbian group, lauded Mr Fry for speaking out. Spokesperson Karen Newman said: “What Stephen Fry is doing is valuble because it draws attention to what is happening in Russia.
“The legislation in itself is of course regrettable, but what makes it worse is the chill effect. It is so much more difficult to be gay and lesbian in countries with legislation like that and the concern is the green light that it gives people to participate in gay-bashing.”
Mr Cameron has thanked Mr Fry for his letter but objected to the boycott. He tweeted: “I believe we can better challenge prejudice as we attend, rather than boycotting the Winter Olympics.”
On August 12 Mr Fry met Mr Cameron in a pub co-owned by actor and gay rights activist Sir Ian McKellen.
“They have a very pleasant discussion,” said one source, “Mr Cameron explained in detail why he thought we should attend the games… Mr Fry asked him how Britain would use its attendance to make the case for gay rights and seemed pleased at the replies he received.”
Thu, 15 Aug 2013 10:53:11 +0100Zoe Winograd110320 at http://www.thejc.com‘Mass killing’ by Egyptian soldiershttp://www.thejc.com/news/world-news/110272/mass-killing%E2%80%99-egyptian-soldiers
<p>Egyptian security forces have allegedly killed hundreds of protesters staging a sit-in in Cairo.</p>
<p>A spokesman from the Muslim Brotherhood said on Wednesday morning that the Egyptian military had fired at a crowd of demonstrators showing their support for deposed president Mohamed Morsi. </p>
<p>Since the beginning of July, two camps of pro-Morsi supporters have been demonstrating outside the eastern Rabaa al-Adawiya mosque and in the Nahda Square in Cairo. </p>
<p>According to the Muslim Brotherhood, more than 600 people have been killed. Other sources have reported numbers closer to 40 people. </p>
<p>Michael Mann, a spokesman for European Union Foreign Policy Chief Catherine Ashton said: "The reports of deaths and injuries are extremely worrying… We reiterate that violence won't lead to any solution and we urge the Egyptian authorities to proceed with utmost restraint." </p>
<p>The Egyptian Interior Ministry released the statement: "Security forces used only tear gas canisters to disperse the protesters though it was heavily fired at by armed elements from inside the two protest camps, causing the death of an officer and a conscript and the injury of four policemen and two conscripts."</p>
<p>A number of Muslim Brotherhood leaders have been arrested but names have not been released.</p>
<p>Reportedly, many of the Morsi supporters are hiding in Cairo University and in the zoo.</p>World newsProtestsEgypt110272storyhttp://www.thejc.com/files/Morsi riot_0.JPG

Riots in Cairo

109245Morsi gone — what next for Egypt?104574Egypt’s liberal opposition faces wipeout
Egyptian security forces have allegedly killed hundreds of protesters staging a sit-in in Cairo.
A spokesman from the Muslim Brotherhood said on Wednesday morning that the Egyptian military had fired at a crowd of demonstrators showing their support for deposed president Mohamed Morsi.
Since the beginning of July, two camps of pro-Morsi supporters have been demonstrating outside the eastern Rabaa al-Adawiya mosque and in the Nahda Square in Cairo.
According to the Muslim Brotherhood, more than 600 people have been killed. Other sources have reported numbers closer to 40 people.
Michael Mann, a spokesman for European Union Foreign Policy Chief Catherine Ashton said: "The reports of deaths and injuries are extremely worrying… We reiterate that violence won't lead to any solution and we urge the Egyptian authorities to proceed with utmost restraint."
The Egyptian Interior Ministry released the statement: "Security forces used only tear gas canisters to disperse the protesters though it was heavily fired at by armed elements from inside the two protest camps, causing the death of an officer and a conscript and the injury of four policemen and two conscripts."
A number of Muslim Brotherhood leaders have been arrested but names have not been released.
Reportedly, many of the Morsi supporters are hiding in Cairo University and in the zoo.
Wed, 14 Aug 2013 12:26:27 +0100Zoe Winograd110272 at http://www.thejc.com